Caffeine addicts and foodies rejoiced when Bow Coffeeshop opened their doors for the first time this week.

The latest extension of Strongbow’s, a long-time Valpo tradition with their turkey-focused restaurant and indulgent bakery, officially began business on Wednesday, April 7th. Owners Russ and Nancy Adams had been planning and designing the space for almost a year, according to manager Jennifer Tepavcevich.

The food menu at Bow Coffeeshop is remniscent of the community’s favorite items from the Strongbow kitchens. Lemon bars from the bakery will be a staple, as well as more typical coffeehouse fare, such as a rotating variety of scones. Savory items will also echo the existing flavors of Strongbow’s Restaurant. Tepavcevich described the food menu as “classic Strongbow’s favorites with a new and different twist.”

The drink menu boasts a range from traditional to unique. A wide variety of coffee and tea varieties will be available everyday through different brewing methods, while some of the other drinks add a more exotic touch. Some of the more unique drink options feature layered coffee techniques, “shocked” espresso, “flat milk”, and floral latte flavors. The café hopes to eventually offer coffee and tea education seminars to help educate consumers about some of the more unusual techniques.

While many of the menu items may be new to the Valpo coffee scene, the new café in town has no desire to compete with old favorites. “Independent coffeehouses are a special coffee community,” said Tepavcevich, adding that Bow Café hopes to “share in the tradition.”

Located at 1111 Cumberland Crossing, Bow Coffeeshop is perfectly located to attract YMCA members and VHS students. Tepavcevich said that anyone presenting valid YMCA or school identification cards will receive 10% off their purchase.